Oswalt Bourn for a Win

Roy Oswalt got his first win of the 2008 season and Michael Bourn homered against his former team in the Houston Astros 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Oswalt (1-3) pitched seven innings and allowed, five hits, one run, walked two, and struck out four, in his first victory of the 2008 season. Houston manager Cecil Cooper said Oswalt pitched as he did last season.

“He was vintage Roy," Cooper said. "He kept the ball down, had a nice breaking ball, and his fastball was crisp. He pitched real well."

Oswalt said he is hoping this outing will be a change in fortune for him since he is leading or tied for the most losses, hits, and runs allowed.

"Hopefully I turned it around," Oswalt said. "I felt better. I wasn't overthrowing. I feel when I have my curveball, I should be able to get to the eighth or ninth inning."

Bourn had a good game as well for the Astros; he was 2-for-4, with two runs, a home run and one RBI. Bourn was traded from Philadelphia for Brad Lidge last November. Bourn said it was nice to do well against his former team.

"You always want to play well against the team the traded you," Bourn said. "More importantly, we got the win. I'm glad we bounced back the way we did. I can't be mad at them. They gave me my opportunity last year. I'm happy where I'm at now."

The Astros scored early on Philadelphia’s Kyle Kendrick. Bourn led off the game with an infield single. After Mark Loretta lined out, Bourn stole second during Lance Berkman’s at bat. Berkman struck out and Carlos Lee knocked in Bourn with a double to left.

Ryan Howard tied the game for the Phillies with a two-out RBI single that scored Jayson Werth.

In the fifth inning with two outs, Bourn hit a ball that hit off the foul pole in right for a home run making to give the Astros a 2-1 lead and the game-winning run.

Kendrick (1-2) pitched seven innings allowing two runs, four hits, one walk and struck out five. Philadelphia’s manager Charlie Manuel said Kendrick had better control in this outing than his previous two.

"He was more aggressive," Manuel said. "His command was good, good location with his sinker. He showed last year that he's durable. I have confidence in him."

Doug Brocail got the save for the Astros pitching a perfect ninth and striking out two. Jose Valverde, who blew the 3-0 lead Tuesday night, had a bullpen session before the game, so Cooper held him out until the next save opportunity.

"He's our closer, no question about it," Cooper said.

The Astros (6-9) will close out the series with Philadelphia 12:05 p.m. CST on Thursday. Brandon Backe (2-1) will start for the Astros against the Phillies’ Brett Myers (1-1).